The Indonesian and South Korean governments are working to finalise the development of a Forest and Land Fire Management Center in South Sumatra, Indonesia, according to statements released on August 7, 2026. Indonesian Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni announced the ongoing finalization of the facility during a site visit on Thursday, August 6, 2026, noting that the project aims to strengthen national wildfire response capabilities amid increasing climate change challenges.
Bilateral Collaboration and Facility Development
The new Forest and Land Fire Management Center represents the culmination of five years of bilateral collaboration between Indonesia and South Korea, according to Korea-Indonesia Forest Cooperation Center Co-Director Jeong Cheolho. Jeong stated that the project was achieved through an intensive exchange of technology, experience, and best practices in wildfire mitigation. He also emphasized that the completion of the facility development this year will not mark the end of joint cooperation between the two nations.
Did You Know? Indonesian Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni met with Korean Forest Service Minister Park Eunsik last April to advance this bilateral cooperation during the diplomatic tour of Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto to South Korea and Japan.
Transboundary Haze and Regional Impact
Minister Antoni highlighted the transboundary nature of forest and land fires, pointing out that smoke and haze frequently cross administrative boundaries to affect neighboring countries. “Note that the haze from wildfires recognises no administrative boundaries. A fire breaking out in Ogan Komering Ilir could affect other regions, even communities abroad,” Antoni stated. He noted that such conditions require coordinated prevention and response efforts across multiple jurisdictions.
Wildfire Mitigation Goals and El Nino Projections
Despite early projections for the arrival of El Nino this year, Antoni expressed confidence in Indonesia’s improved wildfire handling capabilities. He noted that the government remains fully committed to reducing affected areas and minimizing public impact. “Our hope this year is to significantly reduce land and fire cases compared to 2023, even though El Nino will occur earlier, ensuring as little impact as possible on the public,” Antoni said.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the new Forest and Land Fire Management Center located?
The facility is located in South Sumatra, Indonesia.
Who met to advance the bilateral forestry cooperation?
Indonesian Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni met with Korean Forest Service Minister Park Eunsik last April during a diplomatic tour by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto.
How long did it take to develop the management center?
According to Korea-Indonesia Forest Cooperation Center Co-Director Jeong Cheolho, the facility is the outcome of five years of bilateral collaboration.
What measures do you think are most critical for mitigating transboundary wildfire haze in the region?